We carry it in our pockets with our smartphones; tablets and computers are everywhere; and everything is connected these days by WiFi, not to mention our cars are becoming tech centers.

But companies continue to bring technology into other areas -- and places -- in our lives, such as the bathroom and kitchen, for example.

simplehuman is a company that focuses their aim at products most of us don't associate with technology, such as soap pumps, trash cans and mirrors.

I recently tried out some of their products and I'll let you know how my experience was and how helpful they were.

Soap pumps

We are all familiar with automatic soap pumps from public restrooms, but did you every think about having them in your own house? Probably not, but in a way it makes some sense.

When you need to wash up, you're probably dirty. When you're dirty, there are germs around. So do you really want everyone touching a hand pump to get that soap out?

Probably not.

The technology simplehuman uses is sensor-based. If it senses your hand is under the area where soap is to be dispensed, it will automatically drip some out. This can be used for dish soap in the kitchen or hand soap in the bathroom.

My only problem with the pump I tested was that I would forget it was there and accidentally put my hand near it and leak soap out. The answer to that, though, is to turn it off, something you can do with the push of a button, so it's no big deal.

Is this an essential item? Of course not, we've gotten by without it for years in our homes. That being said, it's a nice thing to have around, because anything that can keep us healthier and limit the spread of germs is OK in my book. And beyond the practicality of them, the look and design of it are pretty attractive too.

Keeping with the sensor-based products theme, the simplehuman lineup also includes several trash cans that allow you to throw things away without touching anything with your hands and not even requiring a pedal to step on.

This is another area where it seems silly at first, but in reality is a very helpful device. For example, have you ever tried making eggs and going to throw them away while you're doing it. WIth these cans, your movement opens the lid and you're free to toss the shells.

The can simplified doing work in the kitchen, and since it remains closed you have less worry about odor from your trash can as well. The stainless steel look of the trash can is also very attractive and will match well with many appliances.

I did not actually see this one in action, but it's worth noting that simplehuman also offers a mirror targeted at women who want the best view of what their makeup will look like in real sunlight. The mirror lights up when it senses a face is in front of it and recreates the effect of the sunlight. For more information, visit http://www.simplehuman.com/sensor-mirror